Richardson, 61, who competed unsuccessfully for the Democratic presidential nomination, was secretary of energy and U.N. ambassador during Bill Clinton's presidency, and also the first high-profile Latino named to Obama's Cabinet.

But a grand jury in New Mexico is currently looking into charges of "pay-to-play" in the awarding of a state contract to a company that contributed to Richardson.

The importance of the inquiry was apparently dismissed when Richardson was first nominated. But it may have taken on more weight in light of the "pay-to-play" allegations involving Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

"It is with deep regret that I accept Governor Bill Richardson's decision to withdraw his name for nomination as the next Secretary of Commerce," the president-elect said in a statement released early this afternoon. "Governor Richardson is an outstanding public servant and would have brought to the job of Commerce Secretary and our economic team great insights accumulated through an extraordinary career in federal and state office.

"It is a measure of his willingness to put the nation first that he has removed himself as a candidate for the Cabinet in order to avoid any delay in filling this important economic post at this critical time."

Obama added that he would "move quickly to fill the void left by Governor Richardson's decision."

Richardson said in a statement that: "Let me say unequivocally that I and my Administration have acted properly in all matters and that this investigation will bear out that fact. But I have concluded that the ongoing investigation also would have forced an untenable delay in the confirmation process. Given the gravity of the economic situation the nation is facing, I could not in good conscience ask the President-elect and his Administration to delay for one day the important work that needs to be done."

In the statement, first obtained by MSNBC and later released by the presidential transition office, he added: "I appreciate the confidence President-elect Obama has shown in me, and value our friendship and working partnership. I told him that I am eager to serve in the future in any way he deems useful. And like all Americans, I pray for his success and the success of our beloved country."

The decision is the first serious political hit for one of Obama's Cabinet nominees and comes just as confirmation hearings begin next week.

Richardson said he would remain governor of New Mexico "for now."

The probe in New Mexico involves questions about a California firm, CDR Financial Products, and its president, David Rubin. The grand jury in Albuquerque is looking into whether the firm was given a contract with the New Mexico Finance Authority because of pressure from Richardson.

CDR made $1.48 million advising the authority on interest-rate swaps and refinancing of funds related to $1.6 billion in transportation bonds issued by the agency, state officials confirmed.

The firm and Rubin together gave $100,000 to two Richardson organizations shortly before winning those contracts.

The probe into the donations was said to be "highly active" around the middle of last month, according to two sources familiar with the investigation, which is being conducted by the FBI and federal prosecutors.

In mid-December, Richardson spokesman Gilbert Gallegos, said the governor was "aware of questions surrounding some financial transactions at the New Mexico Finance Authority" and expected state officials to cooperate fully. Gallegos declined further comment.

"CDR has always tried to abide by these byzantine campaign finance regulations and is cooperating fully with this investigation," Beckler said in a telephone interview with a Post reporter on December 15.

Both the Richardson and the Blagojevich situations identify what is perhaps the central defect in American politics, what we're currently calling the play-for-pay nature of politics.

The line between illegal bribery and legal political "donations" is extremely murky, largely one defined by the ambiguity generated by officials and so-called contributers when they set up their deals. The fact is, all money given to an elected official is a bribe. Some bribes are simply more legal than others. Only by limiting the size and source can the quid pro quo be eliminated.

The solution is not complicated.

Limit any "donation" to a reasonable amount given only by individuals and do away with both organizational donations as well as so-called bundled donations and any other gratuities.

Until these corrupting links are broken we'll continue to be a dysfunctional nation ruled by the wealthy through their political proxies.

Greg Palast's research of government corruption found in his book, "Armed Madhouse" raised serious questions about Governor Richardson's ethics years ago.

Our government has rewarded idle rich financiers and CEO's while bilking the rest of us for so long, causing consolidation of wealth to the extent that it may be virtually impossible to rise to power without playing into the corruption of those who hold too much unchecked power.

So,is this the start of the corrupt Imperial Presidency of His Majestic Arrogance Barack Hussein Obama,the exposing
of all the corrupt Democrat crooks and their forced resignations that has only just started with the blob Bill Richardson?

Or,has WAPO and Fouled Up Fred Hiatt and you Obama Cult Members forgot that this same incompetent Bill Richardson has screwed up every appointed job in our US
Government that Richardson ever had? Or,that this pathetic reject from OA and
leading candidate for AA has a already well
established track record of failure?

So I still maintain the Obama/Biden Presidency will be the most inept,totally
corrupt,completely incompetent one ever.

Good Bye and Good Riddance as the first of a good many totally dishonest,corrupt,and
crooked incompetent Democrat hacks that their great incompetent leader Barack Obama
nominated for his pathetic cabinet and this
creep Bill Richardson, the big blob of fat
crook and total incompetent is only the beginning of the mass exodus that will be facing Obama and Biden from here on out.

So anybody know if the Las Vegas Odds Makers are taking bets yet by now as to which one of the scumbag corrupt Democrats
that Barack Hussein Obama nominated for a
Cabinet will be forced out next?...And what
did the winning bet on fat Bill Richardson
being the first one to go,pay off at as well? WOW! I may get rich yet thanks to the
Chicago Con Artist Obama Greed.

So, thank you God for answering my prayers to get rid of the Barack Hussein Obama's New Democrat Culture of Corruption Ridden
Adminisration with sleazy fat job corrupt
total incompetent crook Bill Richardson be
forced out as Sec of Commerce, Please God
remove Do Nothing Janet Napolitano the Obama Sec of Homeland Seucrity Next so that
the USA doesn't suddenly have 40 Million More Illegal Aliens sneaking into it.

And so, please Dear Lord take Rahm Emmanuel
and David Axelrod,and the rest next. And above all see that Barack Hussein Obama and
his Court Jester Joe Biden are Impeached and Removed from Office as well.

Well, you all have four year to spew your hate. Four years of an Obama administration.

Not a Clinton II administration.
Not a McCain administration.

An Obama administration.

O

B

A

M

A

He'll fix this country and let his record speak for itself. Right now all you can yell about is

nothing

a big, fat goose egg.

Blagojevich tried to extort money and favors in naming Obama's replacement. Obama's chief of staff designate reported it, rather than go along. Richardson has been caught possibly accepting a bribe. That's what the vetting process is about and what it's uncovered. Obama's let him go rather than allow his administration to be tarnished with this mess. Or is that throwing him under the bus? Heads, you win, tails, Obama loses. Nice try.

The fact is, Obama could turn this country into paradise on earth and you trolls would still find something to yell about. "The ambrosia's stale! Does the weather have to be perfect ALL the time? Waaaaaaahh!" Here's your binky. Now STFU and enjoy the next eight (yes, eight) years.

Bradcpa: Perhaps you missed the news that
Obama is going to use his full name when he
is sworn into office. I think it is an hysterical media thing -that no one dare-DARE- use his middle name- but apparently he doesn't feel that way. What hypocrites the syncopants in the press continue to be,(and insidiously influencing the general thinking) denouncing the general public's use of his middle name and then to have it thrown back in their faces when he decides to use his legitimate middle name in the swearing -in- ceremonies. I am no Obama supporter, rather one of Hillary's supporters who didn't flip, but I am looking for at least an acknowledgement of what is on a birth certificate by this next president and I think he made it clear he will go by the record.

TO PREVENT THE MOST QUALIFIED PERSON - A WOMAN - FROM LEADING THE WORLD IN IT'S MOST DIFFICULT TIME THROUGH BOYS CLUB RAT ROVIAN LIES AND TACTICS AND ONLY BE REWARDED WITH FAILURE - A VERY FANTSTICALLY BAD KARMA

OBAMA HAD AND PROBABLY HAS PREMATURE ELECULATION PROBLEMS - HE COULDN'T WAIT HIS TURN

FOOLS RUSH IN
WHERE WISE MEN NEVER GO

BECAUSE IT IS THE PLACE WHERE WISE WOMEN LEAD EVERYONE OUT OF DANGER AND DESPAIR

MR OBAMA WILL PAY FOR HIS PRIDE
AND HIS PUPPETEER DEMOCRAT OLD BOY THUGS WILL PAY WITH THEIR POLITICAL FUTURES

I love it! The scandal has started before he's taken office - both Richardson and Blagojevich. Also, just wait till Michelle Shaniqua Obama opens her mouth and her suppressed inner ghetto spews forth and embarrasses her husband's administration.

So once again the Poor Judgement and Total Failure To Vet Another Barack Hussein Obama
Cabinet Nominee has again caught up with him. The fact remains all fatso slimeball
Bill Richardson was a Big Time Pay Off for selling out his pals Hillary and Bill Clinton for Obama.

That and the fact that Bill Richardson has
played the race card for years anytime that
this half Hipanic loser Bill "I'm Hispanic"
Richardson thought it will help him and got
away with it until now. Richardson is as big a coorupt crook as Barack Hussein Obama
since Obama also played the race card to get the black vote in 2008. Or did you already forget 95% of Blacks fell for it
and voted for Barack Hussein Obama only because he says he is black like me here?

The only place Barack Obama,Joe Biden,Janet
Napolitano,Ken Salazar,Eric Holder,David Axelrod and Rahm Emmanuel belong is behind
bars not in the White House.

Richardson isn't important. The important thing to keep in mind in the Cert. Mtg. on Thursday after the Repub House and Senate hold a special private mtg. on Tuesday to discuss strategy and the likelihood that 1 Congressman and 1 Senator will question Obama's eligibility, throwing the Senate into an in-depth investigation of Obama's background, something that should have occurred years ago. On either Tuesday or Wednesday, Ed Hale of Plains Radio in TX will receive a Port of Entry court document with Obama's mother's signature showing that Obama was born in Kenya, meaning he cannot be a "natural born citizen". This will be huge news just in time for the Cert. Mtg on Thursday. Even if The Congressional Cert. Mtg. approves the election, SCOTUS is sure to get involved as it's a Constitutional matter.

So, while Gov. Richardson will likely be indicted and possibly go to prison, the only story that matters is the one the MSM WON'T cover--the one that patriot station Plains Radio has been on like white on rice since Phil Berg's first suit was filed in June or July.

Incidentally, Phil Berg's suits at SCOTUS are this Friday the 9th and on Jan. 16th. Other very strong cases are being heard at the State Supreme Ct. level and will be adjudicated after Jan. 20th.

You can always tell a wacko is writing a post when it begins with including Obama's middle name..... So if you really want to make a point with me and any one with a reasonably open mind do refer to the President elect as Barrack, Obama, Barrack Obama or the President.

There is evidence that Mrs. Clinton, Mr. Schumer, Mr. Bloomberg (and many others) took part and/or covered up, pay to play schemes, and no one seems to be bothered. Why is that? If proof is needed, just call or send me a message.

I guess that Bill has his hand in the cookie jar again. This is not new news to any New Mexican, and since there is not a chance to hire a Monica look alike again, I guess he has no real value to any adminsitration. He is corrupt as most politicians, but the hint of scandal has overwhelmed him this time. The "pay for play" has dstruck agian. What about the other Democratic nominees?? Hmmmm? Any investigative reporting at the WaPo???

For your knowledge, The FBI has been an integral part of the Republican schemes and misdeed, and the on going “investigation” into the firing of the nine US Attorneys… is still “going on”, in part, thanks to mukasey, his gang and some Democrats. So what are you going to do about it, American(s)?

So Slimey Fatso Bill Richardson will not be the only one force to resign from the scumbag Democrat filled Obama and Biden Cabinet and I agree Arizona Ex-Govenor Janet Napolitano is the next one that needs
to go as does Rahm Emmanuel and David Axelrod among others. Whatever happened to
honestly vetting these people first here?

This here too,also brings Obama so-called "good judgement" back in question once more as well. So Obama and Biden and
Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid why don't all of you corruption covered losers take the
hint and resign as well,since don't you need to be "spending more time with your
families" now? You betcha Impeach Obama!

For the BO lovers, not to worry as your honeymoon ride will end soon enough and reality hits ... you applaud this decision as honorable?! As if BO had any choice on Richardson -- with Blagojevich / Emanuel, and now Hillary on deck ... all before BO takes office! The ROW has got to be wondering what's wrong with this country ...

The Obama haters have hit it right on the money. Obama blew it - investigating the nominee, discovering a potential conflict of interest, fully disclosing it, allowing the nominee to withdraw without protest. No coverup, no excuses, no secrecy. Who does he think he is?

He obviously doesn't know the way it's done in Washington. Sweep it under the rug, deny the press interviews or access, threaten potential whistle blowers, then years later when the scandal breaks keep the perp on staff and give him a Medal of Freedom. Better yet, consult the bloggers for their opinions - they have YEARS of governing experience under their belts!

A developer in New York state donated $100,000 to former President Bill Clinton's foundation in November 2004, around the same time that Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton helped secure millions of dollars in federal assistance for the businessman's mall project.

Hillary Clinton helped enact legislation allowing the developer, Robert Congel, to use tax-exempt bonds to help finance the construction of the Destiny USA entertainment and shopping complex, an expansion of the Carousel Center in Syracuse.

She also helped secure a provision in a highway bill that set aside $5 million for Destiny USA roadway construction.

Just for starters. The Dems have a LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONG way to go to catch up with the Repub goobers as far as corruption goes. We're weeding them out now, as opposed the rat wing tendency to overlook/enable wrongdoing.

The Department of Energy, the Bermuda Triangle of Cabinet agencies, is claiming another victim this week. The Case of the Missing Hard Disks has doomed Secretary Bill Richardson's aspiration to be Al Gore's running mate. Republican senators are demanding Richardson's resignation. George W. Bush is turning the nuclear bumbling into a campaign issue. The Senate Armed Services Committee summoned Richardson for a spanking on Wednesday. Democratic senators ripped him. Republicans suggested that an independent agency, not DOE, should supervise nuclear weapons and security. Sen. Robert Byrd, D-W.V., vowed that the Senate would never support Richardson again. Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., growled, "You have lost what credibility you had left on Capitol Hill." During his days as an international troubleshooter, Richardson liked being called "007," but not even James Bond could escape from the torture chamber Richardson is in now.

It is a shame- Richardson is a talented and brilliant man but is strictly a political animal and thought he could go further with Barak than with the Clintons. So in this case he played politics and lost- he's still the NM governor.

I am very disappointed that Governor Richardson finds that he must step down due to the distraction the investigation will cause. He is correct that we need serious attention NOW to our economic issues and it is admirable of him to place the country's needs above his own political career. I am concerned that our vetting processes drive away the best people and we are left with poorer leadership. I wish we could see what is really going on.

let me understand the rules.
a black can call lil hussein "the majic negro" and no one complains.
the dem rag the la times can run the article calling lil hussein 'the majic negro" and no one complains.
but if a republican repeats it - well he is a racist.
yea right.

I'm on to something here, but the rat wingers are certain to flame and deny and continue to be the short-sighted apologist/enablers that they are.

At least there's only 15 more days till the national nightmare is over. At least the Dem's are ridding themselves of any problems, or even the appearance of a problem. Something the Repub Kool-Aid imbibers never learned to do.
_________________________________________

It was an analogy, not a theological assertion. I guess 4th grade level logic is a bit too complex. The Dems haven't "rid" themselves of anything so far, lol! They're getting caught in droves and being exposed for what they really are--politicians. Big problem today is the partisan's like you don't understand simple concepts. It's all about Das Party--Ja voldt!!

When talking about illegal immigrants during the democratic primaries, Hillary Clinton made the statement “No woman is illegal”. Even still, no one has done more for illegal aliens in the United States than New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson (D). Obama will find it difficult to replace Richardson as the champion of illegal Hispanics.

"...The Devil's best trick was convincing everyone he doesn't exist..."

Now that I think about it, God's never convinced me he exists either.

I'm on to something here, but the rat wingers are certain to flame and deny and continue to be the short-sighted apologist/enablers that they are.

At least there's only 15 more days till the national nightmare is over. At least the Dem's are ridding themselves of any problems, or even the appearance of a problem. Something the Repub Kool-Aid imbibers never learned to do.

As a New Mexico citizen, I was aware for quite a while that Richardson was sleazy and used to tell people from out of state that. They were shocked, but I was not surprised that he is being investigated. He has been pretty slick for as long as I have known about him.
I bet Wen Ho Lee is celebrating tonight.
On the other hand, Richardson did a lot of good for the state while lining his own pockets and setting himself up to advance politically. It is a shame he is such a mixed bag. He has done much good and made many mistakes.

Well my advise to him is(call Tom Delay) act like a republican stay in that SEAT WHILE ALL ALONG SAYING YOUR INNOCENT..then if you are found quilty like 2 years from now then you reisgn and say your sorry and agree to enter the nearest republican rehab where all the bushie cronies ended up.

When will everyone learn? This is what happens when the centralized, socialist and unconstitutional Federal Government has too much authority and no one is accountable for their actions. The elected officials take payoffs (Rep & Dem alike) and everyone is a pay to play official. No Federal employee in the bureaucracy really wants change and all most care about is a budget increase for their departments so they can get a pay raise and bilk the hard working people who live pay check to pay check to subsidize their illegal and unconstitutional activities.

Biggest lie ever told: "I'm from the Government and I'm here to help".

Jeremiah Wright, Tony Rezko, William Ayers, the mayor of Detroit, the Daleys, the Mells, the Blagojevichs, the Madigans, the Jacksons, Bill Richardson, and Hillary Clinton. Jeez Loise, what clown car are Obama's friends coming from? Do you suppose Obama is the ringleader of all these thugs or is he just a clueless bystander?
----------------------------------------

Jeremiah Wright, Tony Rezko, William Ayers, the mayor of Detroit, the Daleys, the Mells, the Blagojevichs, the Madigans, the Jacksons, Bill Richardson, and Hillary Clinton. Jeez Loise, what clown car are Obama's friends coming from? Do you suppose Obama is the ringleader of all these thugs or is he just a clueless bystander?

Hooray! The fat fraud Bill Richardson shady
dealings finally caught up with him. So,
Good Riddance,Now Obama needs to get rid of
Former AZ Gov Democrat Do Nothing Janet Napolitano,as Sec of Homeland Security,
Former Sen Ken Salazar,former Congresswoman
Hilda Soulis,and above all get rid of that
Chicago Punk Rahm Emmanuel and Clueless David Axelrod among others,if the Great And
Fake Messiah Barack Hussein Obama is being one bit sincere and honest about all his promises of "Chnage We Can Believe In" BS!

This all once again shows the very poor judgement on Obama's part that that clown
Bill Richardson was not properly vetted to
began with here. It is damn sure time for
the Chicago Gang Banger Teeny Booper President Elect Barack Hussein Obama to GROW UP and stop running around on idiotic
endless fancy Hawaii vacations,trips to the
gym,goofing off golfing and shooting loops
and get real about doing his job that the
voters mistakenly elected Barack Obama to do,or Resign or Accept he will be Impeached
long before 2012. I have had it with this
crazy Clownorama Obama Show! Grow UP Obama!

Friends it would be nice if we stuck to degrading and finding fault in politicians and the high and mighty.I like people that point out their shortcomings. And not the finding of fault in each other. We don't have to attack each other just because we don't believe in each other's philosophy.

I don't think that a more self-centered man has ever held the office of the United States presidency.
Posted by: OldCoot1 | January 4, 2009 5:40 PM
------------------------------
Hold onto your hat. You will see a more self-centered man hold that office starting Jan. 20.

I like the visuals and audio conjuered up by your Slim Shady reference! Ma name is..ma name is.. O BA MA ...will the real Obama please stand up? please stand up.. (all the while, Ayres, Wright, Blago, etc...etc... poppin' up in the crowd).
Best post yet dude..true and funny. Thing is, would we recognize the "real Obama" if he DID stand up?

I wonder what would have happened if he had decided to run as a white man.

It is becoming quite clear that Obama is an incompetent neophyte who is in way over his head. It will be fun to watch his administration implode after the news media portrayed him as some sort of Messiah.

It is not "racist" to point out that the United States Constitution requires a "natural born" citizen to become President. I would have gladly voted for a pro-life African-American like Alan Keyes. Nice try, though, sperrico ; )

The wacos are out today. Screwballs like FruadObama, who must live in Deadend, Alabama or someplace like it don't know that a cult is a religion, and not a member of a political party. Get the rocks out of your head, and your small member out of your cousin FruadObama.

JakeD:
thank you for indirectly admitting that YOU are a racist. I don't need to write anymore about you. Everyone can know that you are a racist. You have FINALLY admitted it. Now you must backfill, and deny your previous words. SWEET!

JakeD: A Black man is going to be your President. Absorb it, live with it or better yet leave. Maybe you could join the draft-dodging, latent homosexual, Odeipex Complex son, cowardly Bush in Paraguay.

Yes, I am an American, and you have the right to inquiry from the US Justice Dept.

My name is "Ignatius", (not "Ignatious)!

What is the point of your remark -because, I voiced support for Gov. Richardson, you therefore, assumed, my name is "Ignatious", instead of "Ignatius", and based on your assumptions, you concluded, I must be Hispanic, and as such, not likely to be an American?

Well, you are wrong on both assumptions, and that is the price you pay for reaching conclusions, not on facts, but preconceived notions and prejudice!

The proof is in the pudding, let us see what the man does befor we condemn him. I would like anyone to tell me who could be worse then G. W. Bush? I think he would be right up with Hitler, Stalin, Marcos and a lot of other dictators that have made their mark on the world. I don't think that a more self-centered man has ever held the office of the United States presidency.

Amusing comments here! The ditto heads are out in force. I'm glad we get to keep "the big fella", Richardson, here in NM. All the Rethugs in this state will be having a s--- fit over it. Lots of laughs ahead!

There are many things more important than Richarson's dealings with a donor:

1. Tim Geithner's role in the current bailout of Wall Street. Appointing him as Secretary of the Treasury is an insult to America.

2. Lawrence Summers and his role as Chief Deregulator during the Clinton years.

3. Hillary Clinton's ties to the Israel lobby... and many other lobbies by the way. Is she going to convince Israel's hawks to stop bombing Gaza?

4. Tom Vilsak's ties to the ethanol lobby. His appointment as as Secretary of Agriculture is the most effective way to keep giving Iowa farmers billions of dollars while pushing global food prices beyond the reach of billions of starving people.

Obama spoke about hope and change. So far, he has made it clear his changes will be devastating for America and for the world.

This is the same bird that went to the Middle East in the late nineties and at Clinton's behest asked OPEC to raise the price of oil to about $30 bbl so the Russians could pay us the debt they owed, (at least that was the official explanation, it's strange that after leaving office the OPEC countries are Clinton's major donors) anyway the price of oil went from the teens right up to $30 bbl and kept on going; it hasn't been back to where it was since. As Energy Secretary he was also responsible for the fiasco at Los Alamos which saw our W-88 nuclear warhead go to China. One of the operators in that gaff was none other than Jamie Gorelick (another Obama team member) who thought it was discriminatory to have different levels of security badges for access to top secret labs at Los Alamos. In her wisdom she had all badges given the same clearance and then the circus of missing data CDs and papers about our most top secrets at the lab began to be realized. Now the Chinese have the capability of reaching our country with nukes with impunity. Fortunately for us the Chinese are friendly these days.

Richardson's announcement is the tip of the iceberg of a legacy of corruption amongst New Mexico Democrats. The population of the state has blindly elected Democratic majorities in the State Legislature for over 70 years, and that has earned it the title as one of the poorest states, worst to raise a child, more DWI's per capita, and on and on. It's a bleak place unless you have money, simply put. A former State Senator and University president - a big power broker, Manny Aragon, is going to prison for bid rigging, and it's symptomatic of the sad state of affairs back there. Give the Governor his due for raising the state's profile among the nation, but friends back in NM I've spoken to aren't going to be happy to see ol' Bill back in the Sunshine State. I have the feeling this is start of something rotten.

Amusing comments here! The ditto heads are out in force. I'm glad we get to keep "the big fella", Richardson, here in NM. All the Rethugs in this state will be having a s--- fit over it. Lots of laughs ahead!

Pres-elect Obama will perhaos choose someone like Richard Parsons or some other well educated and experienced administrator to be his Commerce Secretary. I see some crazy blogs from Hadoodi. America is not like your Islamic terrorist haven like Pakistan. In America just because someone practices Islam does not mean a thing, other than making sure you guys do not have any sinister motives. What we in America need is someone that can deliver regardless of his or her religion.

Blagojevich, Richardson, Ayers, Clintons, Axelrod, Soros! Is anyone in the Obama camp on the up and up? Was he elected only because of partisan breath holding and contempt? Talk about cutting off the nose to spite the face!

I see will will need to build some new prisons in order to hold all the corrupt Obama henchman on the payroll. We can knock out two birds with one stone here - Obama wants massive spending on infrastructure to stimulate the American economy, and we will need more prison space for corrupt Democrats. This works out perfectly.

The Democratic Party must now confront a very unsettling notion: The American people will soon come to regard Obama with more contempt and lower approval ratings than George Bush. The Democrats and the news media have conditioned the public to despise politicians whenever anything is even slightly negative. This will soon come back to haunt them in a major way. As the unemployment rate edges towards 10 percent, the much hyped "respect from the international community" fails to materialize, and America records its first ever trillion dollar deficit, Obama will have nowhere to hide.

An obsevation for all of you idiots who somehow want to deflect the Obama issue by bringing up the republicans. I COULD CARE LESS ABOUT THE PUBS! This is about Obama. You have elected at best an incompetent socialist and at worse a liar, cheat and fraud. The country is going to pay a terrible price for this joker, mark my words.

I agree with a previous poster, vomit inducing liberal rags such as the WAPO refuse to actually do any type of real journalism on this character. They all want the second coming of Camelot...though I am not quite sure why.

I would think Mr Obama might now consider someone like Dr Fawzi Mafooz, Chicago business leader and president of that city's Outdoor Merchants Association. This is a chance for the President-Elect to bring a top Muslim-American into his cabinet. Reports indicate more than 100% of Chicago's Muslims voted for Mr Obama.

The question now is: to what lengths with the Washington Post, MSNBC, and other Democratic Party mouthpieces whitewash the growing scandals around Obama? When will they start doing their jobs and root out the truth behind Obama's corruption? They did such a great job of covering important national issues during the campaign like Bristol Palin's pregnancy, but they didn't look into Obama's past at all. I bet Obama will give "bailout" money to the near-bankrupt newspapers in order to keep them from asking uncomfortable questions.

The question now is: to what lengths with the Washington Post, MSNBC, and other Democratic Party mouthpieces whitewash the growing scandals around Obama? When will they start doing their jobs and root out the truth behind Obama's corruption? They did such a great job of covering important national issues during the campaign like Bristol Palin's pregnancy, but they didn't look into Obama's past at all. I bet Obama will give "bailout" money to the near-bankrupt newspapers in order to keep them from asking uncomfortable questions.

No one should be surprised at all, including Mr. Obama. A man like Mr. Richardson without any integrities has already showed the public of himself more like a skunk from many his dirty deeds in his public career. This scandle also shows that Mr. Obama is no different from other insiders in Washington. Sooner or later Americans will realize what a president they chose in a desperation move. If one believe GW Bush has dealt a big blow to this nation, just wait to see what Mr. Obama will do. On the other hand, Chinese spies like Dr. Li wenho can enjoy a break for a while.

Obama Transition Team should nominate Mr. Richard Parson (distinguished Time-Warner CEO), for the Secretary of Commerce.

I am saddened that Gov Richardson has withdrawn his name as a nominee for the Dept. of Commerce -he is a great and courageous American, and I am very proud of his courage, in endorsing Sen. Obama, inspite of the vicious attacks by the Hillary - Bill Clinton machine!

As a possible replacement, I would suggest to the Obama Transition Team to consider Mr. Richard Parson (the distinguished Time-Warner CEO). As a highly successful business man, with a record of distingushed accomplishments in the public sector also, Mr. Parson would be ideal for the Commerce Secreatary.

Better this come out now than if Richardson had, by chance, been chosen as the Democratic nominee and this come out. That would've practically thrown the presidency/vice presidency into the laps of McCain/Palin. Now THAT would've been a tragedy and disaster for our country.

For those of you saying you voted for McCain/Palin ... I wouldn't brag about it if I were you. Obama's worse day is still better than four years of McCain/Palin.

Funny how the libs continue to downgrade Palin. A very popular effective GOVERNOR Palin. Obama on the other hand, a part time senator that the only thing he really ever did of any consequence (other than go against the surge and accept defeat) was to write a couple boring books about his favorite topic...himself. Other than that his past is shady, incomplete, suspicious and creepy.

hahahahha - yeah, right. They would've done a freaking SPECTACULAR job. I blame you for stupidity. Of course we could always boost the economy by putting Bristol's mommy-in-law to work selling drugs... That should raise the U.S. GDP.

Palin... anyone who voted for that dimwit ought to beat themselves over the head with a rake.

The problem with the current system of campaign finance is that the candidate knows who gave him the contribution. Contributions to an election trust with dispersal periodically to candidates will help solve this problem.

I have no idea whether Richardson is guilty or not nor do the people attacking or defending him. But I agree that this one does not pass the sniff test and until the situation is laid bare Richardson should not be a Sec in the cabinet.

The real problem is the integrity of the leaders of this society. This financial crisis has demonstrated that the leaders on Wall Street had no integrity and the system is set up to weed out those with integrity because they by being honest will not show the profits that their crooked counterparts show. The financial service industry and the communication industry and the health service industry need to be regulated heavily. They will then be abandoned by this crooked element because the opportunities to steal, commit fraud and extort will disappear.

We either clean up the country or we will become a secondary power. Most people do not seem to care but it is their future that these crooks are stealing.

The real lesson of Madoff is that neither the competing businesses nor the SEC stopped this problem and that the SEC has been asleep for years. Just because you were not ripped off by Madoff does not mean that you are not being ripped off, say in your 401K or somewhere else that you are not aware of. The system is rotten and needs to be changed so the opportunity for crooks is made more difficult.

It's an endless list, and it did not come out of illegal eavesdropping and wire-tapping. It surfaced on its own, like an infection."
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
had to go overboard with the numerous lines here in order to distinguish myself from you...

While in your small mind, colons represent "=" symbols, I am here to tell you that they do not.

Moving on..let's say that WAS the effect you were groping for in your mind-blowing point...do you have any evidence to back up what you're saying? Example: it would be unfair for me to post a comment like, "ElMugruso=Stupido" without having some support for my arguement, wouldn't you agree?

Of course, here I BEGAN by making the case for your stupidity..so (I hope you're following) it is fair.

"A developer in New York state donated $100,000 to former President Bill Clinton's foundation in November 2004, around the same time that Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton helped secure millions of dollars in federal assistance for the businessman's mall project." (http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/01/04/americas/clinton.php)

I love it! The scandal begins. He hasn't even been sworn in yet and he is already been stained by corruption - both Richardson and Blagojevich.

Posted by: Diannne721 | January 4, 2009 4:16 PM

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Well put. The thing about Blagojevich is his weave of crooked Chicago connections, any of which will come back and bite the Obama Administration multiple times. When those guys go down, they drag everybody with them. The companies that benefited from the Richardson contracts in exchange for cash won't go down quietly either, though I think Richardson is small potatoes compared to Blago.

A developer in New York state donated $100,000 to former President Bill Clinton's foundation in November 2004, around the same time that Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton helped secure millions of dollars in federal assistance for the businessman's mall project.

This is hilarious. Has any previous administration in American history shown such corruption even before inauguration? Obama and his gang of Chicago/Clintonite thugs will get a humiliating rebuke in the 2010 elections, and then get thrown out of office in 2012.

I see the "real American" rethuglicans are at it again with their guilty before proved innocent mantra. We real American dems assume innocence until proven guilty. You guys should move to Mexico and let the illegals stay here, as they assume innocence until proven guilty.

Well, at least Richardson showed some character by withdrawing as Commerce Secretary, unlike Blagojevich and the numerous people appointed to a presidential cabinet who are less than stellar - democratic or republican. Can anyone remember when the last time a president-elect required his nominees to fill out an in-depth questionnaire as opposed to nominating friends and acquaintances regardless of them being qualified or morally and legally compromised?

The RW has complete control over the judicial system. Democrats better get used to all the investigations and "frivolous law suits." This is the only power the RW has and you can be sure that this is how they will use it.

Get used to Democrats being investigated now that ivestigation and more negativity is all Democratic critics have. The Clintons were "investigated" for a failed real estate deal called Whitewater for 8 years unsuccessfully. The RW gave it up as soon as Clinton left office. There was never anything there and Republicans knew it. Republicans will continue to use their power and the government to investigate any Democrat they can. Wait until this so called investigation is over before you crucify Richardson. I think we will all find out that he is the upstanding person we all expected him to be.

Hell, comparing crooked GOP politicians to crooked Dems is like comparing Al Capone to a candy store shoplifter. Republicans, whenever they're trusted with a majority or executive control, ALWAYS steal public funds for themselves and their cronies. Case in point the last eight years where hundreds of billions of dollars have gone to the Cheneys and the Bushes and friends.

Pull yourself together lynettema. This president-elect and his crooked administration doesn't need any help from Rove or anybody else to hang themselves. The analogy here is that of the Titanic taking on water ...before... it hit the iceberg.

The stuff we are hearing this weekend about Reid and Richardson has Rove smell all over it. They didn't win, so they are doing all they can to be the spoilers. We have to decide if we are going to let it work or if we are going to believe our eyes. You can either believe the enemies of Obama and Democrats in general or you can do some real research to find out who benefits from this slander.

Gee what a surprise! (insert sarcasm here) More corruption surrounding Hussein Obama. Stupid fools that voted for this guy. You had a chance to help the United States and you blew it! The writing is on the wall.

"CDR has always tried to abide by these byzantine campaign finance regulations and is cooperating fully with this investigation," Beckler said in a telephone interview with a Post reporter on December 15."

Mr. Attorney, if you find the campaign finance regulations so "byzantine", your client should not be making campaign contributions. That's for the big dogs.

How wonderful to see the chickens coming home to roost. Mid life crisis Richardson
is getting his just deserts for turning his
back on Hillary in the primaries for a quid
pro quo for a cabinet post. He has been under a cloud for years but no one ever nailed him-I hope this time someone slipped
up.Good bye and good riddance B.R.
I think the scandals are just beginning for
Obama-Chicago and Richardson are just the tip of the iceberg.

Stop with the "Guillermo" garbage, please. Bill Richardson is named after his American, banker father, so his given name is William.

Second - the GOP would rip into this, no problem, whether the issue is legitimate or not. But it would be the world's largest pot calling a medium sized kettle black. Halliburton ring a bell? Or the entire US Energy policy for the past 8 years?

This doesn't say anything about Obama. We knew our representatives were tainted before Obama was elected. Who else can he choose? The problem is we need to stop electing just anybody into office. We have to take some responsibilities for our representatives because were the ones sending them to office.

Even though I could not vote in either the primary or general election because I reside permanently in one of the nation’s colonies, I believed Governor Richardson to be the most qualified for his party’s nomination of all of the contenders seeking the nomination. I am sorry to see him stepping aside at this time, but applaud him nevertheless for doing so under the circumstances and in the interests of both the new administration and the country. Hopefully he will be vindicated of wrongdoing and find himself in a position to continue serving the people of the nation. Actually, he was my preference for the Secretary of State slot. Except for this ongoing investigation, the Governor is eminently qualified for national office.

The stench of scandal coming from the Obama camp is now to too strong for even the Washington Post to ignore and whitewash. I love how WaPo spins it as "opting out" instead of what it really is - an explosion on the launch pad. The American people will soon have a really bad case of buyer's remorse when they realize what a thug Obama is. Don't blame me, I voted for McCain/Palin!!

Posted by: get_it_right | January 4, 2009 2:42 PM

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Well said. I can't help but wonder what that weak minded 52% is thinking now after voting for this kind of change. The thugs of the crooked Chicago Machine haven't even moved in yet. It's going to be a long 48 months until the next administration in 2012. Pretty soon the whole tingly, wet legged, ratings starved, Corporate Media will throw the whole crew under their bus, which is lot bigger than Obama's old bus.

Funny to read republicons harping about "Democratic sacdals" after the past decade. Far too many republicons with their hands in the cookie hjar, or their winkies in other people's toilet stalls, to count.

Richardson did the right thing. He withdrew befroe something that is probably nothing became fodder for the right wing slander and hate machine. Obama has already shown more integrity than the entire GOP caucus and he is not even in office yet. Of course rat wingers love guilt by association when it involves a Democrat. It only applies to Democrats. Never mind the Reagan abbassador who financed Ayers - only that Obama met him counts. Never mind scalia taking money from a firm he was about to rule on, or taking a vacation on cheney right before ruling on a case involving cheney - no guilt there...

I am sorry that so many Obama haters are taking this opportunity to mess up his presidency. It is very sad that Richardson is caught up in this scandal.
If you turned a laser beam on all of the politicians and examined their actions, probably most of the current Congress leaders would be somehow involved in questionable quid pro quo games.

I believe Hillary will be next, of course you never know. Fitzgerald said he had thousands of phone calls and several new defendents. Hillary is making the news though with her pay to play. Then there is Rezeko who seems to be talking again. Obama would hold a press conference on this but you know "there is only one president at a time"

The stench of corruption hangs low over the Obama transition as Richardson and Clinton and Emmanuel are pulled into the vortex. Soon trillions of federal dollars will be splooged into the nimble old hands of these appointed kleptocrats.

The stench of scandal coming from the Obama camp is now to too strong for even the Washington Post to ignore and whitewash. I love how WaPo spins it as "opting out" instead of what it really is - an explosion on the launch pad. The American people will soon have a really bad case of buyer's remorse when they realize what a thug Obama is. Don't blame me, I voted for McCain/Palin!!

Politicians should work for free and ware an open mic all the time, with a limit of 2 years in their job. They work for the people, not the opposite. They shouldn't have vacations. My father didn't take vacations for 10 years. I'm sure 2 years is not a big deal.

Actually this is a good day for the Nation and the Democratic Party as this demonstrates Obama's willingness to rid his branch of bad apples and cronyism for the betterment of the nation.

Too bad Bush and the Republicans couldn't do the same. The nation would have been much better off today, without being bogged down in an illegal war, disliked by most of the world and mired by the current Republican economic depression.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++
George W. Bush: CORRUPT
Cheney: Corrupt
Libby: Corrupt
Karl Rove: Corrupt
Sarah Palin: Corrupt
...
...
It's an endless list, and it did not come out of illegal eavesdropping and wire-tapping. It surfaced on its own, like an infection.

Good for Mr. Richardson--he's doing the right thing for the good of his country. These are, after all, critical times and our government has serious business to take care of without the distraction of partisan politics.

Now, since Norm Coleman has his very own, very dark legal cloud hanging over his head, for the good of his country it would be nice if he'd focus on that and just accept that he lost his senatorial campaign rather than dragging a frivolous case through the courts in order to postpone the inevitable. It would also be nice if, for the good of his country, Senator Cornyn would stop threatening a partisan fillibuster to stop a fellow senator from being seated.

But sadly, it is all too seldom that the current crop of Republicans in Congress do anything for the good of their country. For them, it's all about keeping partisan rancor alive, and the country be damned.

Adios, Guillermo, however this is an opportunity for Mr Obama to appoint a prominent Muslim-American to a key cabinet post. As has been reported, Muslims are consternated over the President-elect's silence on the Gaza massacre. Remembering that in Chicago (at least) they voted over 100% for him, let's hope he seizes the moment.

And the dopes fawn all over him like he's the second-coming of Stalin or Mao.

Corrupt leftist pukes. I can't wait until they push things too far. It will be fun showing them who has the guns and who controls the military in this country. It will be abortion on demand for all liberals.

I read with growing weariness and, I admit that I have a strong disdain for, all of the comments on and reflections upon the soon to end presidency of George W. Bush. I don't feel qualified or competent to judge a work-in-progress, by which I mean the Bush presidency, but I would like to say that I already feel sorry for President-elect Obama. He has reaped the whirlwind sown by others, and I believe that it will be all he can do to avoid being carried away by it. Nancy Pelosi was clearly telegraphing to us her own fears for the style of government she now heads in fact, a "culture of corruption." For Barak Obama the lesson now beginneth.

don't be an idiot, robtr. The most corrupt connection Obama has is that the governor of his home state is smarmy, and everybody knew it. Richardson hasn't done anything wrong-- it sounds like they're just worried about appearances after the Blago thing. I hope Richardson comes back and takes a role soon.

I'm devastated and disappointed that this happened. I have no idea of the facts of the case and will wait to see what comes out of the inquiry.

It is very disappointing not to have Bill Richardson's hand at the helm of Commerce, which will be at the heart of the vital task of reviving American business and consumer confidence after this economic crash.

My thoughts are with Bill Richardson, his family, and his many supporters and well-wishers. I have been a small donor to Richardson in the past and favored him in the primary. I am hoping for the best for him.